Faults:
At purchase, this car was already a wreck: Very rusty, bad rear suspension, motor oil leak were amongst its more obvious issues. Front suspension was replaced short time before purchase. Also before purchase: Complete Tectyl anti-rust treatment of underbody.
At ~190,000 km: Minor issues with tension leads. Well, major issue, minor solution...
At ~230,000 km: Complete exhaust system replacement, from manifold to muffler -- it basically fell apart because of rust. Also replaced front left panel because of rust.
At ~250,000 km: Broken alternator, needed replacement.
At ~290,000 km: Oil leakage and rear suspension issues made the car obsolete, as it didn't pass the obligatory bi-annual vehicle inspection.
General Comments:
Considering this cars general condition at purchase, it's a miracle that it has made it through five years, 100,000 km. and several lengthy road trips.
Fuel consumption is incredibly low.
The car is very comfortable and has a very good 'feel'.
Not a durable car in northern, snowy regions. The road salt will make this car rust away.
In spite of this cars small engine (88hp), I had no trouble driving four passengers and a ton of baggage up steep hill sides. I also used this car to lug around a ~500 kg. trailer, without noteworthy difficulties.
31st Dec 2014, 13:35
I still own this '95 Corolla, which has now covered 258 000 km. Only oil and filter change since last time, plus one light bulb. Fantastic car!